Program for Current and Former ADF Families

This award winning program dedicated to supporting the unique needs of young people aged 8-18 from Defence and Veteran families has been made possible by the Australian Government.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs is partnering with the Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation to deliver the Defence Kids Program across Australia, which provides camps, activity days and age-appropriate mental health education focusing on coping skills and resilience, while allowing young people to bond with peers who are facing similar challenges.

These young people experience the unique realities of postings, relocations, and long periods of separation, moments that can bring uncertainty but also opportunities for courage, connection, and growth. Kookaburra Kids helps alleviate some of this stress by giving young people a head start in building social connections with others facing similar challenges. They also learn about mental health in a fun and supportive environment.

Defence Kids Impact

Strengthening Connection with the Defence Community

Independent evaluations show just how powerful our Defence Kids programs are, helping young people build confidence, resilience, and the courage to reach out for help when they need it. Around 75% of participants make lasting friendships, and 95% come back to join us again, proof that the connections they make really matter.

To keep things fun and engaging, we team up with trusted local suppliers, like bowling alleys, laser tag centres, and go-kart tracks, ensuring every activity is safe and age-appropriate. Whenever we can, we choose veteran-owned businesses, strengthening our connection to the Defence and Veteran community while supporting their work and shared commitment to helping young people thrive.

We also work hand-in-hand with community partners like Defence School Mentors, local health services, and other Defence-focused organisations to make sure young people who need support know about and can access our programs.

VESPIIA Award Winner

In 2025, the Defence Kids program was awarded Social Program of the Year at the the Veterans, Emergency Services & Police Industry Institute of Australia (VESPIIA) Awards for Excellence.

This recognition is a testament to the hard work, compassion, and collaboration of our team, volunteers, and supporters nationwide.

Thank you to VESPIIA for recognising our work, and to all the Defence families and partners who make this program possible. Together, we’re helping Defence kids build brighter, stronger futures.

ELIGIBILITY

To refer a young person to this program no mental health diagnosis is necessary.

All young people aged 8 to 18 of current and ex-serving defence force families who have experienced the impact of Defence life on their wellbeing are eligible to participate.

Where is the Program Available?

Programs are available for all eligible young people aged 8-18 in ACT, NSW, NT, QLD SA, VIC, WA and TAS.

For NSW the programs are most accessible for all areas in the Sydney basin and extending as far as Nowra, Blue Mountains and Newcastle.

ACT covers all ACT areas and encompasses southern NSW areas currently as far as Cooma and Bega.

QLD encompasses Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, as well as Townsville and Cairns.

NT is based in Darwin.

SA is based in Adelaide.

VIC is based in Melbourne.

TAS is based in Hobart.

WA is based in Perth and encompasses the area South to Rockingham.